HIGE 303 - Non-West Middle Classes

Credits: (3)
America has long believed that the rest of the world would be better off if it emulated our values, models, and successes. While the world has largely scoffed at such advice, in one significant and fascinating way it has in fact emulated us: Many non-West societies have built large, vibrant and relatively-wealthy middle classes made up of hundreds of millions of citizens who replicate our consumerism, desire for democratic processes, and environmental concerns, among other similarities. But each of these middle classes also differs from the American model, reflecting their national histories, cultures, and priorities. Studying these non-West middle classes provides a unique lens to learn more about both of them and us. (Winter)
Global Encounters